Friends In High-Tech Places
The FCC has incredible power over the health of our democracy, from how we get our information to the technology we use to freely express ourselves -- and the billions of dollars made in between -- yet we tend to know little about the people who wield that power. The latest technocrat nominated to take charge of the commission is Julius Genachowski, an old school chum of the president.The FCC has incredible power over the health of our democracy, from how we get our information to the technology we use to freely express ourselves — and the billions of dollars made in between — yet we tend to know little about the people who wield that power. The latest technocrat nominated to take charge of the commission is Julius Genachowski, an old school chum of the president.
Cronyism is distasteful, but Genachowski actually has a high-tech, legal and policy resume that should help him through the confirmation process.
Dig, Root, GrowWashington Post:
Former chief legal counsel to FCC Chairman Reed Hundt and an executive at Barry Dillar’s IAC/InterActive Corp, Genachowski is widely lauded as the first FCC nominee who is both a Washington telecom policy insider and business executive.
But one of Genachowski’s greatest assets may be his close ties to Obama. Friends through undergraduate studies at Columbia University and later at Harvard Law School, Obama brought Genachowski into his campaign at the beginning. He wrote Obama’s technology and innovation plan for the campaign. And he was widely hailed as the “godfather” of the president’s groundbreaking campaign tactics that utilized online social networks and YouTube to raise money and spread Obama’s message.
This year, we’re all on shaky ground, and the need for independent journalism has never been greater. A new administration is openly attacking free press — and the stakes couldn’t be higher.
Your support is more than a donation. It helps us dig deeper into hidden truths, root out corruption and misinformation, and grow an informed, resilient community.
Independent journalism like Truthdig doesn't just report the news — it helps cultivate a better future.
Your tax-deductible gift powers fearless reporting and uncompromising analysis. Together, we can protect democracy and expose the stories that must be told.
This spring, stand with our journalists.
Dig. Root. Grow. Cultivate a better future.
Donate today.
TD Column
In a healthy party, losers get jettisoned and new leaders are given the reins.
Editorial Cartoons
Health & Wellness
The betrayal of trust by the institutions meant to protect Flint’s residents has made them cautious as they look to the future.
TD Original
Reflecting on the systems that maintain racism and separatism in America.
Wounds of War
According to Pentagon policy on “responding to civilian harm”, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin owes Somalian drone victims an overdue apology.
Editorial Cartoons
You need to be a supporter to comment.
There are currently no responses to this article.
Be the first to respond.